The ʻŪʻū (Myripristis amaena), commonly known as the Menpachi, Brick Soldierfish, or ‘ū‘ū in Hawaiian, is a striking reef fish easily identified by its pale red to pink coloration with darker red scale margins. Its large eyes, characteristic of nocturnal feeders, and a dark streak behind the operculum distinguish it. These fish typically grow up to almost a foot and are found in groups hiding in caves and under ledges during the day, emerging at night to feed on zooplankton and small crustaceans.

In Hawai‘i, the ‘ū‘ū is a valued food fish, appreciated for its rich, oily flesh and is commonly caught in small-scale and subsistence fisheries. While there isn't extensive documented specific cultural significance beyond its use as a food source, the presence of such fish in traditional Hawaiian diets speaks to their role in sustaining island communities. As part of the vibrant reef ecosystem, the ‘ū‘ū also plays an ecological role as both predator and prey, contributing a balanced marine environment.

- David Shepard

Loulu palm, or Pritchardia, is the only native Hawaiian palm genus. It is useful for its large fronds, a shield from the sun and rain, as well as for weaving items such as hats. Once a dominant forest species, the accidental introduction of rats to the islands resulted in the rats eating most of their seeds and seedlings. This has resulted in scattered remnant populations of these formerly common palms. They are easy to grow in the landscape once established. Growing more of these beautiful palms in the urban landscape is a great way to enjoy them and to increase their population in the present.

Maile (Alyxia stellata) is a highly regarded native vine in Hawai‘i for its fragrance and use in lei and ceremony. It is one of the most precious lei to give or receive. Growing demand for lei, changes in land stewardship, the introduction of ornamental (and invasive) species, perhaps the absence of fruit eating and seed spreading native birds, and over harvesting have all led to a decline in maile groves.

Today, a few farmers grow and steward native maile varieties throughout Hawai‘i. Responsibly harvesting maile ensures it is plentiful for the next generation. Always ask for permission from the place and caretaker. Anecdotally, the decline of maile groves has coincided with the decline of the ‘alalā (the native Hawaiian crow). A frugivore, the ‘alalā ate understory native fruit, such as maile, spreading the seed throughout the forest. Today, the ‘alalā has been extinct in the wild for many years, but they are being raised in captivity and have been reintroduced to the wild with high hopes for their reestablishment. The importance of our native forest birds and our mindful maile harvest practices demonstrate both the interconnectedness of our Hawaiian forest as well as what we can do to help it to grow.

The kukui tree, its flowers, leaves, and nuts are symbolic of enlightenment, leadership, knowledge, wisdom and education. The nuts are often strung into lei. They are rich in oil. When strung together they can also be burned to function as a torch or candle. In this print the kukui nut cords stretch up and down. When lit, they burn from one to the next.

Each nut is both a seed and a light. The burning of the nuts one by one symbolizes the passing of knowledge and light from past to future generations in an endless continuum. Wise leaders, educators and loved ones share that light and pass it onto us in turn that we may do the same for the next generation. The symbol of Hawaiian King Kalakaua's reign was ke kukuioiwikauikaua: the kukui torch that burns at mid-day. Inspired by the monarchy era, the symmetry, color palette, and feeling of this pattern are both a nod to Victorian, quilt, and kapa design work as well as a Hawaiian sensibility and depth of meaning.

The ‘apapane is a Hawaiian honeycreeper, a native species of forest bird found in the mid to high-elevation forests of the Hawaiian islands. ‘Apapane feed on flower nectar from several native Hawaiian species such as ‘ōhi‘a as well as the ‘iliahi illustrated in the fabric art. Like most Hawaiian native forest birds, they are most threatened by mosquitoes, which are not native to Hawai‘i, and which transmit avian malaria and avian pox. These diseases kill many birds and limit the bird’s range to high elevations in the mountains where it is too cold for mosquitoes. As climate change causes temperatures to rise, mosquitoes are migrating up into higher elevations. The resulting increased exposure to disease transmission threatens the native forest birds. Birds, Not Mosquitoes is one of several agencies working to protect these and other native Hawaiian honeycreepers from extinction. To learn more about how you can help, visit: www.birdsnotmosquitoes.org

- David Shepard

The Kiwikiu, or Maui Parrotbill, is a critically endangered bird native to the high-elevation forests of Maui. The Kiwikiu forages on tree trunks, branches, and fruit for insects, thus helping to control insect populations and promote forest health. The Kiwikiu is severely threatened by mosquitoes, which transmit avian malaria and avian pox, diseases to which the bird has little natural immunity. As climate change causes temperatures to rise, mosquitoes are migrating up into higher elevations. The resulting heightened exposure to disease transmission has signi cantly contributed to the decline in Kiwikiu populations, making their conservation even more urgent.The Maui Forest Bird Recovery Project, The Nature Conservancy, and Birds, Not Mosquitoes are some of the agencies urgently working to protect these and other native Hawaiian honeycreepers from extinction. To learn more about how you can help, visit:www.birdsnotmosquitoes.org.

The ʻAkikiki, a critically endangered honeycreeper native to the island of Kauaʻi, is currently one of the world's most endangered bird species. Known for its distinctive, soft call and delicate appearance, the ʻAkikiki is sadly down to only a handful of individuals as of this writing. As an insectivorous bird, it plays a vital role in controlling insect populations, contributing to the health and stability of its forest habitat. Its precipitous decline is being caused by mosquitoes, which transmit avian malaria and avian pox (diseases to which the bird has little to no natural immunity). As climate change causes temperatures to rise, mosquitoes are migrating up higher in elevation.

On Kaua’i, this means mosquitoes are moving into the little remaining habitat left to these and other critically endangered honeycreepers. The resulting heightened exposure to disease transmission has significantly contributed to the decline in ʻAkikiki populations, making their conservation even more urgent. The Kaua’i Forest Bird Recovery Project and Birds, Not Mosquitoes are some of the multiple agencies urgently working to protect these and other native Hawaiian honeycreepers from extinction.

The Hawaiian Pueo, also known as the Hawaiian Short-eared Owl or Asio flammeus sandwichensis, holds both environmental and cultural significance across the Hawaiian islands. The majestic and elusive owl is respected as an ‘aumakua or family guardian spirit by native Hawaiians. In mo’olelo (traditional stories), the Pueo is believed to embody the spirits of deceased ancestors and is considered a protector. It’s presence is thought to bring guidance and warnings to those who encounter it.

Ecologically the Pueo plays an important role, praying on rodents and other small animals that can become pests. Unfortunately, habitat loss, introduced predators, and vehicular collisions threaten the Pueo population. Collaborative initiative between local communities, scientist, and government agencies aim to preserve the Pueo for future generations. The Pueo serves as a powerful symbol of the interconnectedness between the natural world and the Hawaiian culture, emphasizing the importance of preserving both for future generations.

The Hawaiian crow, ‘Alalā (Corvus hawaiiensis), is a critically endangered endemic bird no longer found in the wild. They were once common throughout the Hawaiian islands. Highly intelligent and vocal, they are named after their vocalization that sounds like the cry of a child.

‘Alalā was an important seed disperser of Hō‘awa (Pittosporum sp.), a beautiful native shrub with tiny clusters of creamy-white flowers, small orange fruit pods that split open to reveal jet-black seeds inside. Lacking this important seed dispersing bird, several species of Hō'awa have become endangered themselves.

The ‘Alalā Project is a partnership between several organizations which seek to bring these birds back to the wild through a captive breeding program. A portion of the proceeds from this print will go to one of the organizations involved in this program, the Maui Forest Bird Recovery Project, which houses many of these birds.

“Hawaiian forests are family; there is a shared ancestry among the people, plants, animals, and landscapes, including species like the ‘Alalā. By returning the ‘Alalā to the wild, we are welcoming home a family member that has been away for a long time and fulfilling our reciprocal responsibilities as stewards and ancestors of this land.” - The ʻAlalā Project

He‘e (octopus) means to flee, slide, or melt. In Hawaiian mythology, they are the kinolau (physical manifestation) of Kanaloa, the god of the ocean. He’e are highly intelligent creatures.

They are shapeshifters, masters of camouflage and the quick get-away when needed. Since he‘e have no bones or armor, they are on the one hand vulnerable to predators. They use this trait to their advantage. Being flexible, they can squeeze through very narrow spaces to hide and escape. They also have black ink that they jet out when throwing off a chasing predator. They hunt and feed on snails, small fish and crustaceans, especially at night. He’e are tricksters who know how to survive on the coral reef.

The he‘e in this print are pictured with Kole tangs (Ctenochaetus strigosus), a Hawaiian endemic fish. The he‘e are hard to spot, camouflaged with their coral backdrop, an apt reminder that things are not always what they at first seem.

Treasured memories, respected elders.

Māmaki (Pipturus albidus) leaves make a healthy tea. It's an old Hawaiian medicinal plant known to boost memory along with many other health benefits.

One of the first pioneer species to fill in gaps after a forest disturbance, it is essential in nurturing slower growing long lived forest species like koa. It is also the larval plant of the Kamehameha butterfly: one of only two native Hawaiian butterflies.

The Kamehameha butterfly is of special conservation concern due to its receding and fragmented habitat. It lays its jewel like eggs on māmaki leaves, hatching into caterpillars, munching away, and transforming into bright, joyful butterflies. Symbolically the Kamehameha butterflies can be interpreted as communication with memories, elders, and ancestors.

Many Hawaiian legends tell the stories of Kamapua‘a, a kolohe (mischievous) pig kupua (demi-god) who takes on many forms at will, one moment a handsome man, the next a pua‘a (pig) or an ‘ama‘u tree fern. Masculine, bold, untamed, sensual.

In folklore, he was always successful against all odds at whatever he set his mind to achieve. Associated with Makahiki season, agriculture, and fruitfulness. He is best known for his tempestuous and fiery relationship with the volcano goddess Pele. His adventurous spirit represents some of the best and worst of us. This print represents two of his kinolau (physical manifestations).

On the Kalaupapa peninsula on the island of Moloka‘i, I was inspired by the living tapestry of native Hawaiian plants hugging the coastal jet black lava rock in swatches of bright silvery greens.

After graduating from UH Manoa I jumped at the opportunity to temporarily run a native plant nursery for the National Park Service in Kalaupapa, Moloka‘i. I’ll never forget my first glimpse through the little prop plane window: impassable sea cliffs sealing off a picturesque town set on a small remote peninsula. I’d learn that its harsh enduring beauty was matched in character by its inhabitants: caretakers and a handful of cured Hansen’s disease (leprosy) patients living out their old age. The remainder of its inhabitants care for the place: its historical buildings and its endemic endangered ecosystem.

I created this design as a lasting testament to the beauty of not only its native Hawaiian landscape, but also its history of human endurance and compassion in the face of daunting circumstances. This place and design are a reminder that beauty arises out of contrast and that depth is born from meaning. The central element to this design is the white Puakala native Hawaiian poppy flower. A thorny flower that thrives among the windswept lava rock and sea spray of the Kalaupapa peninsula.

"Pua ka wiliwili, nanahu ka manō."
When the wiliwili tree flowers, the shark bites.
‘Olelo No‘eau (Hawaiian Proverb), Mary Kawena Pukui

Shark bites, though rare, have been documented to occur more in the Hawaiian islands during the fall, coinciding with the flowering of the wiliwili tree depicted in this hand-drawn artwork as well as the mating season for tiger sharks. This print is inspired by this astute Hawaiian observation of the interconnectedness of nature's patterns.

Wiliwili (Erythrina sandwicensis) is a native Hawaiian flowering tree. Wiliwili, means "twist-twist," referring to the twisting shape of the seedpods. Its lightweight wood was once favored for making surfboards (papa he‘e nalu) and its bright red bean-like seeds for making lei.

The trees lose their leaves during the dry summer season. At the end of summer, they burst into bloom. Different trees have different colored flowers: ranging from very pale yellow, to orange, to crimson red. Found on the dry and windy leeward sides of the islands, groves of these trees are clustered across the open landscape. Normally hard to spot except when they bloom. Their colorful flowers catch your breath and can be seen from a great distance. This print is a reminder of the interconnectedness of the cycles of nature and of the wisdom embedded in these enticing flowers: watch for sharks.

Coconut or Niu has a Hawaiian saying or ʻōlelo noʻeau, 'Ka wai lewa i ka makani' or 'The water which sways in the breeze.' Water is often symbolic of wealth, and the heavens, the region above, here provides blessings.

This print tells the life cycle or the genealogy of the coconut palm and it's fruit. Like a series of Russian dolls, each of us contains within us the multitudes of both our ancestors and the seed and nourishment for future generations. Similarly, the coconut contains within it multitudes. The coconut provides nourishment of both people and of the embryo within the coconut. The fruit is capable of withstanding long ocean voyages as it protects future generations within its husk. It is central to pacific cultures, allowing them to voyage and prosper.

Kaniakapūpū means “the singing of the land shells” in Hawaiian. Featured in this print are kāhuli snails, ’ōhi’a lehua bursting into flower, and nectar feeding i’iwi birds. This print has layers of meaning, or ‘kauna’: The songs of the snails bring Hawai’i into being.

Kaniakapūpū is the name of the summer palace of Kamehameha III who said in 1843, ‘ua mau ke ea o ka ’aina i ka pono’ or ‘the life of the land is perpetuated in righteousness.’ The Hawai’i state motto to this day.

“Kāhuli (tree snails) are attributed with song and are featured in oli, mele, and mo’olelo. They are considered hō’ailona (omens or signs) when encountered in the forest. Their colorful forms adorn plants and people alike, as their shells were used in lei. Unfortunately, they are under threat of extinction by the appetites of introduced invasive predators. Hawai’i’s Snail Extinction Prevention Program and their partners are rearing Kāhuli for reintroduction and are protecting their habitats.“

- David Sischo, Ph.D. Snail Extinction Prevention Program Coordinator.

A portion of proceeds from this purchase will go towards the Snail Extinction Prevention Program.

A past Hawai’i echoes with visions of a future one. Manu-o-kū birds soar, nest, and fish amongst the coastal flowering Hawaiian hau trees. The hau flowers last only a single day each, going from yellow at dawn to orange and red as the day ends.

The manu-o-kū, also known as the white tern, holds deep cultural and ecological significance to Hawai’i. When seen out at sea, these graceful birds are natural indicators to seafarers that land is near. Like fI Sherman, they go out to sea in the mornings to fish and return to shore in the evenings.

Once rare in Hawai’i, except in the remote northwestern Hawaiian Islands. Their comeback once the 1970s in urban Honolulu is a testament to dedicated community conservation efforts, while echoing the timeline of the Hawaiian cultural renaissance. Honolulu has implemented measures to protect the trees where they are actively nesting from disturbance, marking them with a blue ribbon around the trunks.

The ‘A‘ali‘i (Dodonaea viscosa) is a native Hawaiian shrub that grows in dry environments around the world. It is a favorite on the islands for its beauty, cultural significance, and role in conservation. ‘A‘ali‘i is known for its strength, proverbially referred to as, ‘a‘ali‘i kū makani, which means “‘a‘ali‘i standing in the wind.” The shrub has the ability to withstand strong storms and wind gusts by bending and not breaking.

Found most commonly in dry, windy, open landscapes, it is easily overlooked until it blooms. Once covered in eye-catching papery seed pods, you can’t help but notice their beauty. The seed pods come in a range of colors from magenta to lime-green. They are a favorite for lei making.

Yet, its strength and beauty are eclipsed by its fast ability to hold space in unsheltered landscapes. These qualities make it an ideal forest regenerator. It quickly forms a canopy, providing shelter to other plants and animals from the wind.

‘A‘ali‘i demonstrates an important Hawaiian value; pairing humility with strength to protect and nurture those around you.